CELEBRATING RAMADAN: A DAY IN THE LIFE OF SAIF LYDICK

For some of our colleagues, March was a celebration of Ramadan, a special month in the Islamic calendar about fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth. During this time, many people of the faith worldwide fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food and drink. It’s a time for self-discipline, empathy, and a deep connection with their faith. To glimpse how this works alongside a busy workday, we asked Saif Lydick, procurement business partner, to share a day in his life during this holy month to understand how he balances work and worship.

Morning Routine (Suhoor)
Saif’s day starts early, around an hour before sunrise. He prepares his Suhoor meal, which usually includes Greek yoghurt with granola, blueberries, chia seeds, honey, eggs and three medjool dates. “I eat foods that will keep me going without feeling too sluggish,” he explains. After his meal, he performs his first prayer of the day, Fajr, before trying to get a bit more rest before the workday begins.

Workday: Challenges and prayer
Fatigue is one of the biggest challenges Saif faces while fasting. “It’s not just about feeling hungry; it’s the thirst that gets to me the most,” he shares. Despite feeling drained, he paces himself by breaking tasks into smaller chunks and taking short breaks. Small pauses help him stay productive, perform prayers, and maintain his connection to faith. “Ramadan is a time to really connect with my faith, so I make sure I don’t skip prayers,” he says. When possible, Saif works remotely to conserve energy and focus.

Evening and Iftar
As the day ends, Saif eagerly awaits Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. "By the time Iftar arrives, my body is drained, and I’ve been counting down the minutes," he shares. Taking the first sip of water and bite of food brings immense relief. For Saif, Iftar is more than just eating—it’s a moment of reflection, gratitude, and connection with loved ones. His family enjoys traditional homemade dishes like samosas and Viazi, a spicy potato dish from his wife’s Kenyan heritage.

Reflections
For Saif, Ramadan is a time of self-discipline and gratitude. “It helps me focus on what’s truly important: my faith, family, and wellbeing,” he says. He advises colleagues who are fasting to pace themselves, embrace reflection, and give themselves grace during tough moments. He also encourages non-Muslim colleagues to learn more about Ramadan to understand more about their practising colleagues.

Saif’s day is a great reminder of the balance we all strive for in our personal and professional lives. Whether finding moments of peace through prayer or pushing through challenges at work, Ramadan offers an opportunity to grow, reflect, and be thankful for the little things that make life meaningful.